Guehi and Stones Hold the Line as England Defence Impresses

England's path through to the World Cup semi-finals was built on more than individual brilliance. According to The Guardian's Jacob Steinberg, centre-backs Marc Guehi and John Stones produced a performance of real substance against Norway, with Guehi in particular repeatedly going shoulder to shoulder with Erling Haaland and coming out on top.

Haaland, who had been one of the tournament's most captivating stories and had proven devastating against Brazil in an earlier round, could not find a way through. England became the first team at this World Cup to stop him from scoring.

Both Guehi and Stones know Haaland well from their time together at Manchester City, and that familiarity appeared to help. Djed Spence also came into the frame during extra time, controlling the left flank effectively.

Thomas Tuchel will still have issues to address before Wednesday's semi-final, according to The Guardian, but his defence has given him reasons for optimism.